This exhibition marks the centennial anniversary of the arrival of American Film Company’s “Flying A Studio” in Santa Barbara and focuses on the history of silent film production in the Santa Barbara area through a variety of objects, artwork, images and film. Call 805/966-1601 for more information.

Deriving its name from the venerable music venue located in the heart of the New Orleans French Quarter, Preservation Hall Jazz Band embodies a joyful, timeless spirit that is steeped in tradition. Under director Ben Jaffe, son of founders Allan and Sandra, PHJB commands a deep reverence and consciousness as the internationally recognized torchbearer of an enduring genre.

Ensemble Theatre presents the Tony Award-winning hit Broadway comedy where hilarity meets Alfred Hitchcock. With lightning-quick costume changes, this madcap farce features a cast of four actors playing more than 140 parts. Call 805/965-5400 for more information.

San Francisco-based, integrated media artist and director Christine Marie strives to break new group in her performance Multiplying Spectacles. Based on the history of mirrors, her large-scale projected shadow theater performance is accompanied by a live score, incorporating video effects and 3D stereoscopic shadow work. The event takes place at the SB Contemporary Arts Forum.

Kinesis 2012 is a dance concert of contemporary pieces presented by Santa Barbara Dance Alliance and will take place at Center Stage Theater. Bringing fresh and sophisticated original dance works by local choreographers showcasing a progressive artistic experience unique to Santa Barbara.

Wear red to create awareness of heart disease; the #1 killer of women.

February 5 & 11, 3 p.m. & 6 p.m. Steve Butler, World Premiere

Professor of music at Westmont college, Steve Butler, will perform the world premiere of his new work at the First United Methodist Church in Santa Barbara on the 5th and St. John’s Lutheran Church in Arroyo Grande on the 11th. The shows are open to the public and is free to attend.

This event is free! Come check out Center Stage Theater on the 7th to recharge and refresh with a dynamic LA-Santa Barbara exchange. SonneBlauma celebrates its 15th season with Affinity. Building on the phenomenal success of the inaugural year of the critically acclaimed Festival, SonneBlauma implements phase two of the project via continued artistic exchange intended to build local, regional, national and international community.

The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum presents a new exhibition of oil paintings by Hans Skalagard about the one of America’s greatest conflicts at sea. This event is free.

February 8- April 11, 3-5:30 p.m. Garden Growers Training

A ten-week training program that will cover tasks involved in operating a successful retail nursery: from propagation, plant care and merchandizing to customer service. For more information call 805/682-4726 x119.

Marla F. Fredrick, Harvard professor of African and African-American studies and of religions, investigates “Women, Religion and Media” in a free, public lecture. The Westmonet Gender Studies Program and Global Christianity Series co-sponser the talk. Her lecture addresses concerns related to the rise of prosperity ministries in poor communities as well as the dramatic rise of African American religious broadcasters on television.

Santa Barbara Soccer Club presents DeMerit’s story about failed tryouts to ultimate triumph in soccer glory. DeMerit was the captain of England’s Watford FC and joined the USA team to play during the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. Rise and Shine features game footage, as well as cameos from other great players.

Ruthie Foster and Paul Thorn have taken their careers to new heights in 2010, The Truth According To Ruthie Foster garnered a Grammy nomination and Thorn’s Pimps and Preachers #1 on the American radio charts. But it is their powerful live shows—this is their Santa Barbara debut—that establish this dynamic duo as two of America’s freshest and finest performers. Call 805/893-3535 for more information.

Dance Teacher’s Gone Wild is a dance concert to benefit the Arts Mentorship Program to provide low income students the funds to dance at local studios. The show includes performances in jazz, hip hop, broadway, ballet and contemporary dance. All pieces are danced by local instructors and professionals. Come experience the fun at Center Stage Theater.

Classic in training and eclectic by design, Quartetto Gelato thrills audiences with its multi-instrument mastery. A mixture of energy of tangos, gypsy and folk songs, as well as the groups theatrical stage presence fills the Lobero Theatre this February.

For more than 200 years, agriculture has been enduring magnet attracting newcomers. In the new exhibit Putting Down Roots: Ventura County’s Immigrant Farmers, 1800-1910, visitors to the Museum of Ventura County’s Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula can learn about farmers who setlled here after traveling across and the country. The exhibit opens February 11 and runs through May 20 in the Finch Family Gallery.

Performance includes Ansel Adams: America, a symphonic tribute to the cherished photographer, and Rhapsody in Blue, an embodiment of the Jazz Age’s upbeat lyricism and dance-driven energy written in 1924. Ives’s second symphony marks an exciting highlight in American symphonic literature. February 11 8 p.m., February 12 at 3 p.m.

With its cataclysmic climax, the Met’s new Ring cycle, directed by Robert Lepage, comes to its resolution live in HD. Deborah Voigt stars as Brünnhilde and Gary Lehman is Siegfried, the star-crossed lovers doomed by fate. Live simulcast Feb. 11 at 9 a.m., encore screening Feb. 12 at 2 p.m. Call 805/969-4726 for more information.

Actress/Author Mara Purl is the guest speaker for the fundraiser benefitting the nonprofit Unity Shoppe. The event is being held at a historical home in Santa Barbara, La Casa Nichita, and will include tea, refreshments and other entertainment.

This glamorous and romantic evening will pay tribute to two of Santa Barbara’s premiere patrons of the arts: Herb and Elaine Kendall. Dinner guests will enjoy cocktails, appetizers and a silent auction dedicated to art, jewelry and fine wine. The evening will continue with a three-course Valentine-inspired candlelight dinner featuring wines by Palmina. Auctioneer Andrew Firestone will host a spectacular live auction with items ranging from a week in southern Spain to a pair of collectible Vasarely cube sculptures. For more information call 805/898-3890.

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Brazilian-born siblings Sérgio and Odair Assad. The brothers have set the benchmark for guitarists by creating a new standard of innovation, ingenuity and expression. The duo’s CAMA Masterseries program explores the brilliant works for guitar by Brazil’s most celebrated composers. Call 805/963-0761 for more information.

Wayne McGregor | Random Dance, the Resident Company of Sadler’s Wells, London, is distinguished by its radical approach to new technology, incorporating animation, digital film, 3D architecture, electronic sound and virtual dancers seamlessly into live choreography. For its Santa Barbara debut, the company performs Entity, “a great sexy beast of a piece” (Sunday Times, London).

The competition represents the first step of a national recitation contest, a program run by the California Arts Council in the state and started by the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and the National Poetry Foundation to engage high-school students in the presentation of poetry through memorization and performance. FREE. Santa Barbara County Administration Building, Board of Supervisors Hearing Room, 4th Floor, 105 E. Anapamu St. For more information call 805/568-3990.

“The poems are so open-hearted and marvelously conceived that they are not just beautiful themselves but effortlessly contain beauty…” The Washington Post. Jane Hirshfield, award-winning poet, essayist and translator, speaks about the core issues which are apparent in her poetry. A generous master of art, Hirshfield has written many books- her most recent Come, Thief.

February 16, 2 p.m. New Volunteer Orientations

Learn about various volunteer opportunities available at the Garden of the Blaksley Library. Take a behind-the-scenes tour and meet some of the staff who train and manage volunteers. For more information please call 805/682-4726 x119.

This class will explore the conifer “hot spots” within California, provide examples of many species using living and herbarium material, and share some tricky short cuts for identifying them at the Santa Barbara Botanical Garden.

The Chieftains celebrate 50 years as Ireland’s “inadvertent prophets of the world-music boom” (Rolling Stone) in a concert experience filled with grace, humor, exceptional musicianship and the pageantry of visiting dancers and pipe bands. Led by founder Paddy Moloney, who formed the band from the ranks of the top Irish musicians back in 1962, the six-time Grammy-winners are musical ambassadors, cultural icons and boundary-pushers who continue to make music with a style that is as exhilarating as it is definitive. 8 p.m. at The Granada. Call 805/893-3535 for more information.

As of 2011, this beloved eclectic, electro-acoustic jazz band, built by keyboardist Russell Ferrante and bassist Jimmy Haslip, celebrates the ripe young age of 30, a milestone commemorated in the album Timeline. The Rhythmic Art Projects presents the Yellowjackets.

As “America’s #1 Flamenco dancer,” Timo Nuñez has performed in front of a television audience of eleven million people, was invited to perform for the royal family in Dubai and has shared the stage with Plácido Domingo. This cutting edge dance spectacular is an eclectic and honest expression involving traditional and modern Flamenco.

Suzanne Duffy on flute joins Sophia Vaillant on piano in a program inspired by Jean Jacques Rosseau that highlights music by Franck, Schubert, Krakamp, Copland, Lukas Foss and Debussy. Trinity Episcopal Church, 1500 State St. 805/965-7419, www.trinitysb.org.

“Unable are the loved to die, for Love is immortality.” (Emily Dickinson). Flora Codman passed away in September of 2011. The Celebration will be followed by a potluck, and some of the folk dances that Codman loved so very much. Please bring a dish to share. Flora’s husband Harold and her daughters Lisa and Karen will be attending, and look forward to sharing favorite memories and photographs with you.

Creativity expert and acclaimed thinker Sir Ken Robinson, renowned for his radical ideas on education reform and innovation in the classroom, speaks about his groundbreaking book Out of Our Minds: Learning to Be Creative. 8 p.m. at Campbell Hall. Call 805/893-3535 for more information.

Sundance Beach is holding its 5th Annual Surf Video Contest on March 10th, 2012 at the Lobero Theater. If you love surf film classics, why not try to head on down and catch the showing of local surfer’s and videographer’s short films and see what they have to offer? Videos will be judged by industry leaders and film veterans and prizes will be award following the screening. Videos are due February 22, at 5 a.m.

A self-taught cook, five-time James Beard Award-winner for Outstanding Chef Tom Colicchio is one of the culinary world’s most celebrated figures and lead judge on Bravo’s Emmy-nominated show Top Chef. 8 p.m. at Campbell Hall. Call 805/893-3535 for more information.

Courage to Lead presents the public intellectual, Parker J. Palmer, as he discusses his new book Healing the Heart of Democracy. In the book, Palmer focuses on “habits of the heart” when it comes to citizens and democracy. His talk will be followed by a dialogue with the audience.

German violinist Julia Fischer, one of the great young musicians of the 21st century, is regularly praised for her technical mastery and illuminating interpretations of classical repertoire. She is a former Gramophone “Artist of the Year” and BBC Magazine “Best Newcomer,” among numerous accolades. 8 p.m. at Campbell Hall. Call 805/893-3535 for more information.

February 23, 6–9 p.m. Home – Garden Court Endowment’s 5th Annual Fundraiser
The Garden Court Endowment is hosting Home, a special benefit event celebrating the importance of caring for local seniors. The event will honor philanthropist Michael Towbes for helping to provide Santa Barbara area residents with housing opportunities. Enjoy a unique evening of dining, wine and cocktails, as well as a silent auction that benefits local seniors in need!

Nuclear Age Peace Foundation presents a free lecture from a legendary peace leader, Daniel Ellsberg. Ellsberg is a former U.S. military analyst famous for releasing the Pentagon Papers in 1971 changing how the public viewed the government and the Vietnam War. The Nuclear Age Peace Foundation advocates for a world free of nuclear weapons and empowers peace leaders.

The Westmont theater arts program presents “Animal Farm” at Porter Theater. “Animal Farm” still resonates powerfully today even though it was originally written in 1945. Wickedness, corruption, greed, ignorance and power can turn any human into an animal. The musical features an ensemble cast of 15-student actors who are having a great time dressing up like animals and singing rock music.

From the varied schools of classical music conservatories and R&B, this inventive violinist explores new territories as she blends world influences into the vocabulary of straight-ahead jazz. Regina Carter‘s sophisticated technique and lush tone took the jazz world by surprise; and through her albums, incessant touring and various guest appearances and collaborations, she has developed into a distinctly diverse musical personality. 8 p.m. at Lobero Theater. Call 805/963-0761 for more information.

Matraca Berg has served as a cartographer for the hills and valleys of women’s souls, doubts, loves and sorrows her whole life, earning her first #1 hit at age 18 and a Grammy nomination at age 22. Berg has provided pivotal hits for artists such as The Dixie Chicks, Patty Loveless, Trisha Yearwood, Gretchen Wilson, Linda Ronstadt and Dusty Springfield. 8 p.m. at Lobero Theater. Call 805/963-0761 for more information.

Trinity Backstage presents James McVay, an award winning composer, producer, and performing songwriter. McVay has spent the last 25 years scoring movies, tv shows, producing records and performing with some of the country’s top musicians including Stan Getz, Doane Perry, Jennifer Condos, David Schwartz, Kate Wallace, Caren Armstrong, Kate Markowitz, Sid Page and the list goes on. McVay has a brand new CD coming out imminently. Here’s hoping we get to hear it all.

February 25, 5-8 p.m. Observations

Come check out the Closing Reception of Observations, a photography exhibition at Brooks. Don’t miss out!

The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum puts on Harbor Treasures with honorary celebrity judges Tommy Tang and Michael Hutchings. There will be tastings from the finest restaurants, wineries and breweries in Santa Barbara. So either reserve a table for some fine dining or just come to taste various dishes.

Choreography by Josie Walsh, State Street Ballet’s The Secret Garden is a masterpiece of enchantment complete with dynamic visuals, cutting-edge choreography and luscious, shape-shifting costumes, set to an original cinematic score by Paul Rivera Jr. Thoughtful and heart-warming, The Secret Garden tells a story of loss, dreams, hope, and the search for happiness that transcends generations. Inspired by Frances Hodgson Burnett’s famous novel, imaginative staging transforms this classic story into a modern-day ballet for all ages.

The rich textile tradition of Teotitlán del Valle, a Zapotec community in Oaxaca, Mexico, is on exhibition at the Museum of Ventura County. The exhibit features woven pieces from the Bii Dauu Zapotec Arts Center and work by local Zapotec weaver and artist Porfirio Guitierrez of Ventura. Established in 2004, the Bii Dauu Zapotec Arts Center is a cooperative dedicated to the production of textiles using only natural dyes and original designs.

Come out to UCSB’s Corwin Pavilion to listen to a lecture by Bruce Alberts, a prominent biochemist with a strong commitment to the improvement of science and mathematics education. This event, as will as the reception after his presentation, is free and open to the public.

Stephen Tuck, professor of American History at the University of Oxford explores civil rights at a free lecture, “Losing My (Jim Crow) Religion: The Battle Between Church and Civil Rights Leaders in the Segregation Era.” Taking place at Westmont’s Kerrwood hall, the lecture will uncover civil rights activists who urged African-Americans to give up their Christian faith.

One of the country’s most respected eating disorder experts, Carolyn Costin joins the International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals for an author book signing of her new book “8 Keys to Recovery from an Eating Disorder.” This event kicks off National Eating Disorder Awareness Week (NEDAW) and takes place at Westmont College. Along with the book signing, there will be a documentary screening and a questions and answer discussion.

The Banff Mountain Film Festival is one of the largest and most prestigious film festivals in the world. On the 27th, All.I.Can-The short cut, Blue Obsession, Hanuman Airlines, Cold, C.A.R.C.A, and DeepSea under the Pole will be the featured films. On the 28th, the festival continues with Reel Rock: Origins- Obe & Ashima, Ski Bums Never Die, On the Trail of Genghis Khan- The Last Frontier, Kadoma and The Freedom Chair.

From the creators of the record-breaking Broadway sensation The Producers comes this monster new musical comedy based on Mel Brooks’ iconic movie. This new musical,is scientifically-proven, monstrously good entertainment–and the only place you’ll witness a singing and dancing laboratory experiment in the largest tuxedo ever made.

Additional Pages

Santa Barbara Seasons is a resource for locals and visitors alike with lush visuals, engaging features and invaluable information on events, fundraisers, retail and culinary happenings. Every issue includes handy maps, restaurant and winery listings and a guide to the county's top destinations. Be prepared to discover something new about the region as we cover businesses and projects off the beaten track as well as the classic favorites. To advertise or subscribe, contact the publisher at 805/564-8804 ext. 203 or Brian.Kramer@Sbseasons.com.